Energy Efficiency in Local Government Facilities and Operations

In Virginia, Arlington County designed the Fresh AIRE (Arlington Initiative to Reduce Emissions) Program to improve energy efficiency in county buildings and operations. The program improved the central library’s operations, maintenance procedures, and building controls. More-efficient lighting and equipment were installed, as well. Together, these updates reduced electricity use by 25 percent, saving more than $30,000 per year. The Madison Community Center reinsulated its hot water pipes and improved its temperature controls, reducing natural gas use by 20 percent. And the Justice Center improved its electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing systems. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency report Energy Efficiency in Local Government Operations (PDF), the building could save $480,000 per year as a result of reducing electricity use by 14 percent, natural gas use by 35 percent, and water consumption by 32 percent.